PrintLounge diversifies with Durst label solution
Steve Sheppard (owner), Greg Daniel (general manager), Mike Andersen (digital operator) and Brittany Andersen (pre-press digital supervisor)
AUSTRALIA’S BEST TRADE PRINTER
Packaging and the RFID revolution
Labelexpo Americas, the only dedicated event in the region for the labels and packaging industry, is taking place from Tuesday 10 September until Thursday 12 September in Chicago.
Hundreds of live demonstrations of flexo presses along with digital technology and finishing equipment will be on display, along with education content and networking sessions that aim to bring the international package printing community together.
With just a few weeks to go, some of the industry’s leading manufacturers have announced the products and new technologies they will be unveiling. In this issue, we preview up some of the products not to be missed. Read our roundup of some of the product innovation not to be missed at Labelexpo Americas 2024 in our event preview from page 32.
A topic set to be a key focus for the label and packaging industry at Labelexpo Americas and beyond is the application of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. RFID technology has been around for more than two decades, during which time major retail groups have played with how it might help improve supply chain efficiency and product security. For most label converters, however, RFID has not been on the radar.
This situation is understood to have changed dramatically when US-based retailer Walmart committed to extend its RFID mandate to most categories of products it sells. Every converter will now need to understand the mandate and what it means in terms of new equipment and workflows and how RFID labels will tie into Walmart’s wider supply chain. Andy Thomas-Emans examines how converters can jump on board the RFID train at Labelexpo Americas on page 36.
Also in this issue, recruitment specialist Richard Triggs shares some of the key considerations to keep in mind when hiring new staff in 2024, and PakTech CEO Brandon Rogers weighs in on why organisations must embrace the circular economy and prioritise sustainable packaging and policies.
As he writes, “for brands, whether an independent brewery or a large FMCG retailer, their customers – and policymakers – are looking more closely than ever at everything from the sustainability of their supply chain to their materials and manufacturing processes. As scrutiny increases, sustainability and the circular economy is no longer a competitive differentiator, it is the expectation.”
Claire Hibbit | Managing Editor
CHibbit@intermedia.com.au
Claire Hibbit
IN THIS ISSUE...
Easy Signs targets 24-hour labels market P06
Easy Signs to target a 24-hour turnaround on label production after purchasing new equipment at drupa.
Currie Group signs new glue plotter distribution deal at drupa 2024 P06
Currie Group signs distribution agreement with F Service Automation for three models of Colibri and Phoenix glue plotters.
Hybrid Software completes over 1200 demonstrations at drupa 2024 P08
Hybrid Software completed more than 1200 demonstrations of its software on its exhibition stand at drupa.
Durst and OMET officially unveil KJet hybrid machine P08
Durst Group officially unveiled its latest innovation, the KJet hybrid machine, for the first time at drupa.
DFLOW signs Dscoop deal at drupa 2024 P10
Trent Nankervis shares details of DFLOW’s
major deal signed between the software and company and Dscoop at drupa.
Robert Neale from WestRock Packaging named LIA NSW Graduate of the Year P12
Apprentice lithographic printer Robert Neale from WestRock Packaging in Sydney named LIA NSW Graduate of the Year.
Graph-Pak signs agreement to represent RE in Australia and New Zealand P13
Graph-Pak to take over from David Trigg to distribute the RE S.p.A. range of products in Australia and New Zealand.
Nekkorb celebrates 15 years serving the industry P22
With a commitment to the labels, print, and packaging community, Nekkorb continues to innovate.
COVER STORY: PrintLounge diversifies with new Durst Tau RSC 340 E LED label press P24
How Auckland-based PrintLounge is embracing the new business opportunities available from digital diversification.
Changing gears with RFID P28
How RFID label technology has emerged as a game-changer for the automotive industry.
Labelexpo Americas 2024 P32
A roundup of the new product releases not to be missed at Labelexpo Americas 2024.
RFID at Labelexpo Americas P36
Labelexpo Americas 2024 will focus on how converters can jump on board the RFID train.
The circular economy: consumer expectations and sustainable growth P40
Why businesses must embrace the circular economy and prioritise sustainable packaging and policies.
How to attract top talent in 2024 P41
Five considerations to keep in mind when recruiting new staff.
Pack diary P42
A guide to upcoming events globally.
Easy Signs targets 24-hour labels market with new equipment
Easy Signs will target a 24-hour turnaround on label production after purchasing new equipment at drupa.
Easy Signs co-owner, Andy Fryer, told ProPack the new HP Indigo and ABG DigiLase equipment represent a ‘game changer’ for his business.
“We print a lot of stickers and up until now we have been printing them on wide format equipment and cutting them out on our Zünd table,” Fryer said.
“We realised that we needed to make a substantial investment with the HP Indigo 6K to compete on higher runs as we know our clients want their stickers or labels on rolls, but we have not been able to provide this until now.
“We will continue to do some of the stickers on the wide format table for UV stability when needed as well as for bigger stickers, but the smaller stickers will migrate to the Indigo and the ABG finishing equipment with DigiLase laser technology.
“One of our main points of difference in the market has been producing products within a 24-hour production time and the new ABG DigiLase laser technology is a game changer.
Currie Group signs new glue plotter distribution deal at drupa 2024
Currie Group has signed an exclusive distribution agreement effective immediately with F Service Automation for three models of Colibri and Phoenix glue plotters for point of sale and packaging solutions.
There are three products in the range –Colibri 140 (1400mm x 850mm), the Colibri 200 (2000mm x 1000mm) and the Phoenix (2700mm x 1750mm).
“This is a logical extension to our recent announcement with Elitron cutting systems – we are getting more into the automated and short run corrugated work through our sign and display products,” said Currie Group business unit manager – sign and display, Paul Whitehead.
“This is the first time Currie Group has had a gluing solution in this packaging space and continues to expand our offering in the sign and display category. This solution will suit sign and display companies that are getting
“Using traditional methods, it is possible to lose 24 or 48 hours with the shipping of dies and there is also a cost. The introduction of the ABG DigiLase laser cutting finishing equipment by the end of this year will be critical for us to meet the expectations of our customers,” Fryer said.
Currie Group director of labels and packaging ANZ, Mark Daws, told ProPack the sale to Easy Signs will help the company further enhance its labels and web-to-print business.
“It wasn’t an easy decision for them. We took Andy and Adam to visit a very similar operation in the UK. They spent a bit of time doing their due diligence. It gives them the most versatile solution on any media off the shelf and it complements their existing
verticals that they operate in.”
Daws also explained the benefits of the ABG DigiLase, that was also purchased at drupa – including web-to-print, fast turnaround, speed to market and automatic set-up.
“This will allow them to get product out, in the shortest possible time with the best technology on the market. We’re so excited to be on the journey with Adam and Andy and the rest of the team at Easy Signs.”
Scan the QR code to hear more from Currie Group’s Mark Daws about the Easy Signs purchase of the HP Indigo 6K and the ABG DigiLase
more into packaging. We are seeing customers move to corrugated with short run and point of sale products in the retail space and this is a perfect fit for these businesses.”
Currie Group director of labels and packaging ANZ, Mark Daws, said the partnership expands and enhances Currie Group’s solutions in the packaging industry.
“If you think about short run packaging,
normally this glue has to be manually applied, so you have less waste and less set up and these products allow companies to automate the process with less manual intervention.”
Francesco Sorbera from F Service Automation said the family business is based in Tuscany and has been manufacturing glue plotters since 2000 with more than 270 machines installed globally.
Adam Parnell and Andy Fryer
Paul Whitehead, Francesco Sorbera, and Mark Daws
Hybrid Software completes over 1200 demonstrations at drupa 2024
Hybrid Software completed more than 1200 software demonstrations on its exhibition stand at drupa bringing together all elements of the company’s business for the first time.
Hybrid Software CEO Mike Rottenborn told ProPack there was some scepticism about the investment in drupa, but he believes the money spent represented a strong return on investment.
“A lot of the vendors were wondering if we put this much effort into drupa, who will come? Will our investment be rewarded?” And it certainly has been. I’m excited to see drupa growing and drupa is back”
Rottenborn told ProPack.
Hybrid Software completed more than 120 demonstrations per day on its booth and Rottenborn said he was “very satisfied” by this result.
“This is the first time as an integrated company on one stand under the Hybrid Software name. It’s great to be here at drupa with all of our friends from Australia and New Zealand, especially
Durst and OMET officially unveil KJet hybrid machine at drupa 2024
Durst Group officially unveiled its latest innovation, the KJet hybrid machine, for the first time at drupa 2024 in Düsseldorf.
The KJet hybrid machine is the latest product to be launched under Durst’s partnership with fellow family-owned Italian company OMET, which was first announced in September 2023.
Speaking at the unveiling, which took place on the Durst Group stand, Christoph Gamper, CEO of Durst Group said: “We’ve had this partnership for a couple of years now, but the [KJet] brings a new level of quality, and we’re very happy that we have it here to launch at drupa.”
Thomas Macina, sales director for labels and flexible packaging at Durst, said the KJet optimises efficiency, while reducing costs.
“The combination of digital with flexo offers an innovative hybrid solution that maximises productivity and flexibility, enabling printers to select between flexo or digital printing, thereby optimising efficiency and reducing costs while meeting evolving market demands such as personalisation and just-in-time deliveries in a single-pass,” Macina said.
“We have been leading the inkjet label
our colleagues – Brenton King and Luke Brown – who have been here for the duration of the show.”
To hear more from Hybrid Software founder and CEO, Mike Rottenborn, scan the QR code
printing market for many years and we provide solutions for all label converters around the world, starting with entry level solutions up to industrial needs with 100 metres per minute and 510 millimetres wide,” Macina said.
“We have been observing a clear market trend towards end-to-end production and this is why we have reinforced our partnership with OMET. At drupa, you will see we are launching a new machine – the KJet – which is the perfect combination of a dual-servo cylinder based flexo unit combined with the robustness, efficiency and productivity of the Durst RSCi digital
print engine. This provides a new experience to operators in terms of simplicity, minimal set-up time and low waste.”
Matt Ashman, managing director of Durst Oceania, said: “The KJet is the culmination of the cooperation between Durst and OMET, two business at the top of their game, delivering the solution label converters need, and exclusively supplied and serviced by Durst Oceania.”
Scan here to watch Durst Oceania managing director
Matt Ashman demonstrate the Durst OMET KJet hybrid printer
Christoph Gamper (Durst Group), Marco Calcagni (OMET), and Thomas Machina (Durst Group) unveil the KJet hybrid machine at drupa
Christopher Graf, Guido Van der Schueren, and Mike Rottenborn from Hybrid Software
DFLOW signs Dscoop deal at drupa 2024
Trent Nankervis confirmed a major deal has been signed between DFLOW software and Dscoop at drupa.
“We have signed with Dscoop to commercialise Print Exchange. Beta testing begins immediately after Drupa. This will be open to 22,000 Dscoop members commencing at the start of 2025,” Nankervis told ProPack.
“We’ve completed alpha testing and created user stories from the five international printers and we got great feedback.”
DFLOW was also recently named as the software system partner for Dscoop Distributed Print Exchange Platform.
The announcement of the partnership was officially made earlier this year in March at Dscoop Edge Indy in Indianapolis, the flagship event of the Dscoop global community, which had more than 1200
Xeikon promotes sustainability offering at drupa
Xeikon continues to enhance its sustainability efforts, presenting a wide range of solutions that aim to drive greener growth and business performance at drupa.
“[Sustainability] is really important in our industry, and we need to be sustainable to keep moving forward,” Trevor Crowley, sales general manager, Xeikon, told ProPack.
“[At Xeikon] we look at sustainability as a very critical way of how we measure how we perform as a business,” said Crowley.
One key component of Xeikon’s sustainability offering is its Sustainability Scorecard, which was launched last year. The scorecard aims to offer a more transparent means of proving compliance with various regulations and help brand owners with their sustainability goals.
The scorecard analyses the carbon footprint of each Xeikon press, right down to the individual components of the consumables. It will identify food compliance, VOCs emissions, recyclability, and energy use to give a complete overview.
“Our sustainability program and the carbon footprint calculator and Sustainability Scorecard in particular, aim to contribute and support PSPs and label converters in mapping the impact of their operations on the environment,” Dimitri Van Gaever, Xeikon’s director of business development, told delegates at the Xeikon press conference at drupa.
delegates in attendance from more than 90 countries. DFLOW is sold on a software as a service (SAAS) basis to print manufacturers globally.
The Dscoop Distributed Print Exchange platform aims to streamline the outsourcing of digital jobs to other members of the Dscoop community.
“By promoting transparency and providing comprehensive information, we aspire to set a precedent that other industry vendors will adopt. Xeikon also remains open for discussion and further refinements if this is required to gain more common support group and acceptance,” said Van Gaever.
Crowley said the business is also very proud that its inkjet and toner machines have extremely low CO2 footprints.
“The Flint Group has a real commitment to the print industry to lower our carbon footprint. The Xeikon business continues to push that with our manufacturing process, our office space, and even all the way down to company vehicles now are going either hybrid or full electric.
“It’s something that we think is very important to the industry. Not only to keep
it sustainable, but to have good, strong sustainable growth moving forward. “
Xeikon recently announced its collaboration with Sappi to develop food-safe, paper-based confectionery packs that are fully recyclable in the paper waste stream.
Xeikon also recently announced its partnership with Kurz company, Scribos, to collaborate on new technology that enables digital label printers to provide added value with interactive features for brand protection, track & trace, and consumer engagement.
Scan the QR code to watch Trevor Crowley discuss Xeikon’s commitment to sustainability
Craig Graham, Doug Robey, Trent Nankervis, Ben Green, and Nathan Drong from DFLOW
Trevor Crowley
SERIES DIE CUTTER
SERIES DIE CUTTER
SERIES DIE CUTTER
SERIES DIE CUTTER
SERIES DIE CUTTER
The Insignia is a sheet-fed, rotar y, flexo magnetic die cutter designed for production-driven operation at an a ordable price point.
A TRUE GUIDE & GRIP REGI SYSTEM ENSURE SHEET-TO-SHEET ACCURACY. SIDE PULL GUIDE CAPABLE OF PULLING EITHER LEFT OR RIGHT TO MATCH REGISTER EDGES.
Folding Carton, Die-cutting Foiling & Flute Laminating Machinery
A TRUE GUIDE & GRIP REGISTER SYSTEM ENSURE-SHEET TO-SHEET ACCURACY. SIDE PULL GUIDE CAPABLE OF PULLING EITHER LEFT OR RIGHT TO MATCH PRESS REGISTER EDGES.
A TRUE GUIDE & GRIP REGISTER SYSTEM ENSURE SHEET-TO-SHEET ACCURACY. SIDE PULL GUIDE CAPABLE OF PULLING EITHER LEFT OR RIGHT TO MATCH PRESS REGISTER EDGES.
A TRUE GUIDE & GRIP REGI SYSTEM ENSURE SHEET-TO-SHEET ACCURACY. SIDE PULL GUIDE CAPABLE OF PULLING EITHER LEFT OR RIGHT TO MATCH REGISTER EDGES.
TRUE GUIDE & GRIP REGISTER S TEM ENSURE-SHEET TO-SHEET CURACY. SIDE PULL GUIDE IS PABLE OF PULLING EITHER LEFT OR RIGHT TO MATCH PRESS REGISTER EDGES.
SMARTFOLD SERVO X
• 500 metres per minute, max outputs make this one of the fastest folder gluers in the world
• Full auto make ready system, allows 10-minute change overs
Folding gluing machine with hand feeder and delivery table
TECHNOCUT 1050S
A TRUE GUIDE & GRIP REGISTER SYSTEM ENSURE SHEET-TO-SHEET ACCURACY. SIDE PULL GUIDE CAPABLE OF PULLING EITHER LEFT OR RIGHT TO MATCH PRESS REGISTER EDGES.
SYSTEM ENSURE SHEET-TO-SHEET ACCURACY. SIDE PULL GUIDE CAPABLE OF PULLING EITHER LEFT OR RIGHT TO MATCH REGISTER EDGES.
A TRUE GUIDE & GRIP REGISTER SYSTEM ENSURE SHEET-TO-SHEET ACCURACY. SIDE PULL GUIDE CAPABLE OF PULLING EITHER LEFT OR RIGHT TO MATCH PRESS REGISTER EDGES.
• Straight line, crash lock, 4 and 6 corner boxes, pocket folds, custom box option
• Available in 65 cm wide, 80 cm or 1100 cm wide
• Cardboard or corrugated.
• Hot melt and cold glue system friendly
• Auto feeder, delivery, carton packing and robotic palletiser options
Megafold Folder Gluer is designed to run max. Speed of 300m/min with solid board ranging from 250-1200gsm and 3 Ply Litho-laminated and 5 Ply corrugated cartons up to 25mm folded thickness
OP SUCTION AIR FEEDER WERED VIA A BUILT WER PUMP IN THE HINE. AN OPERATOR CAN Y ADJUST OTH BLOW & O ADJUST FOR THE T RANGE OF MATERIALS POSSIBLE. INDEPENDENT HEADS CAN BE ADJUSTED TO SHEET SIZE.
A TOP SUCTION AIR FEEDER IS POWERED VIA A BUIL T IN BLOWER PUMP IN THE HINE. AN OPERATOR CAN INDEPENDENTLY ADJUST OF BOTH BLOW TO ADJUST FOR T RANGE OF MATERIALS POSSIBLE. INDEPENDENT HEADS CAN BE TED TO SHEET SIZE.
A TOP SUCTION AIR FEEDER IS POWERED VIA A BUILT WER PUMP IN THE HINE. AN OPERATOR CAN INDEPENDENTLY ADJUST OF BOTH BLOW & O ADJUST FOR THE T RANGE OF MATERIALS POSSIBLE. INDEPENDENT HEADS CAN BE O SHEET SIZE.
A TOP SUCTION AIR FEEDER WERED VIA A BUILT WER PUMP IN THE HINE. AN OPERATOR CAN INDEPENDENTLY ADJUST OF BOTH BLOW TO ADJUST FOR T RANGE OF MATERIALS POSSIBLE. INDEPENDENT HEADS CAN BE TED TO SHEET SIZE.
OP SUCTION AIR FEEDER VIA A BUIL T WER PUMP IN THE HINE. AN OPERATOR CAN INDEPENDENTLY ADJUST OF BOTH BLOW & O ADJUST FOR THE T RANGE OF MATERIALS POSSIBLE. INDEPENDENT HEADS CAN BE O SHEET SIZE.
Scan to watch
MATERIALS
OP SUCTION AIR FEEDER WERED VIA A BUILT WER PUMP IN THE HINE. AN OPERATOR CAN INDEPENDENTLY ADJUST OF BOTH BLOW & O ADJUST FOR THE T RANGE OF MATERIALS POSSIBLE. INDEPENDENT SUCKER HEADS CAN BE ADJUSTED TO SHEET SIZE.
OP SUCTION AIR FEEDER VIA A BUIL T WER PUMP IN THE HINE. AN OPERATOR CAN INDEPENDENTLY ADJUST OF BOTH BLOW & O ADJUST FOR THE T RANGE OF MATERIALS POSSIBLE. INDEPENDENT SUCKER HEADS CAN BE ADJUSTED TO SHEET SIZE.
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• Fast processing, speed to 7500 sheets per hour
• Wide size range, 360 x 400 mm to 750 x 1050 mm
• Cutting force 300 tonnes
Same machine as Box 1 but is upgradable to add the automatic continuous feeder PLUS an automatic delivery table
• Paper, cardboard, solid board, corrugated board plastic
Same machine as Box 1 but is upgradable to add the automatic continuous feeder PLUS an automatic delivery table
A RECESSED SCRIBE LINE ON SINGLE MAGNETIC MACHINES ALLOW FOR FAST, CONSISTENT DIE MOUNTING & ENSURES TOOLS ARE HUNG PARALLEL CENTERED.
• Carton board min 80 g/m2, max 2000 g/m2
RECESSED SCRIBE LINE ON SINGLE MAGNETIC MACHINES ALLOW FOR FAST, CONSISTENT DIE MOUNTING & ENSURES DIE OOLS ARE HUNG PARALLEL & CENTERED.
A RECESSED SCRIBE LINE ON SINGLE MAGNETIC MACHINES ALLOW FOR FAST, CONSISTENT DIE MOUNTING & ENSURES DIE OOLS ARE HUNG PARALLEL CENTERED.
• Corrugated board max 4 mm thick
SUCTION AIR FEEDER D VIA A BUIL T WER PUMP IN THE HINE. AN OPERATOR CAN INDEPENDENTLY ADJUST OF BOTH BLOW TO ADJUST FOR T RANGE OF MATERIALS POSSIBLE. INDEPENDENT HEADS CAN BE ADJUSTED TO SHEET SIZE. A RECESSED SCRIBE LINE ON SINGLE MAGNETIC MACHINES ALLOW FOR FAST, CONSISTENT DIE MOUNTING & ENSURES TOOLS ARE HUNG PARALLEL CENTERED.
RECESSED SCRIBE LINE ON SINGLE MAGNETIC MACHINES ALLOW FOR FAST, CONSISTENT DIE MOUNTING & ENSURES DIE TOOLS ARE HUNG PARALLEL & CENTERED.
A RECESSED SCRIBE LINE ON SINGLE MAGNETIC MACHINES ALLOW FOR FAST, CONSISTENT DIE MOUNTING & ENSURES TOOLS ARE HUNG PARALLEL CENTERED.
RECESSED SCRIBE LINE ON SINGLE MAGNETIC MACHINES ALLOW FOR FAST, CONSISTENT DIE MOUNTING & ENSURES DIE TOOLS ARE HUNG PARALLEL & CENTERED.
A RECESSED SCRIBE LINE ON SINGLE MAGNETIC MACHINES ALLOW FOR FAST, CONSISTENT DIE MOUNTING & ENSURES DIE TOOLS ARE HUNG PARALLEL & CENTERED.
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Same machine as Box 1 but is also upgradable by added second folding unit to fold and glue crash lock bottom and machine
second folding unit to fold and glue crash lock bottom and machine
ULIC PRESSURE
Smartfold Classic Folder Gluer is designed to run max. speed of 400m/min with solid board ranging from 170-800gsm and 3 Ply Litho-laminated cartons up to 15mm folded thickness
HYDRAULIC PRESSURE
A PIN MOUNT SYSTEM ON MAGNETIC MACHINES ENSURE THE ALIGNMENT OF THE P SET OF DIE T OOLS. CYLINDERS ALSO HAVE BUILT-IN MICR TMENT CAPABILITIES TING. ULIC PRESSURE ASSEMBLIES ARE ADJUSTED K WHEEL. INFINITE TO 3,000 PSI CUTTING PRESSURE IS AVAI GAUGES ENABLE OPERATOR DETERMINE MINIMUM PRESSURES TO EXTEND DIE LIFE.
A PIN MOUNT SYSTEM ON DU MAGNETIC MACHINES ENSURE THE ALIGNMENT OF THE PAIRED OOLS. CYLINDERS -IN MICROABILITIES TO
A PIN MOUNT SYSTEM ON DU MAGNETIC MACHINES ENSURE THE ALIGNMENT OF THE PAIRED SET OF DIE TOOLS. CYLINDERS ALSO HAVE BUILT-IN MICROABILITIES T ULIC PRESSURE ASSEMBLIES ARE ADJUSTED EASI K WHEEL. INFINITE O 3,000 PSI CUTTING PRESSURE IS AVAIL ABLE. GAUGES ENABLE OPERATOR DETERMINE MINIMUM PRESSURES TO EXTEND DIE LIFE.
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TEM ON DU HINES ENSURE
APIN MOUNT S YSTEM ON DUAL HINES ENSURE THE ALIGNMENT OF THE PAIRED OOLS. CYLINDERS -IN MICROABILITIES TO
APIN MOUNT S YSTEM ON DUAL MAGNETIC MACHINES ENSURE THE ALIGNMENT OF THE P OOLS. CYLINDERS T-IN MICR TMENT CAPABILITIES TING. ULIC PRESSURE ASSEMBLIES ARE ADJUSTED VIA THE BL ACK WHEEL. INFINITE ADJUSTABLE UP TO 3,000 PSI CUTTING PRESSURE IS AVAI GAUGES ENABLE OPERATOR DETERMINE MINIMUM PRESSURES TO EXTEND DIE LIFE.
THE ALIGNMENT OF THE PAIRED OOLS. CYLINDERS -IN MICROABILITIES TO
ASSEMBLIES ARE ADJUSTED EASI VIA THE BL ACK WHEEL. INFINITE ADJUSTABLE UP TO 3,000 PSI OF CUTTING PRESSURE IS AVAIL ABLE. GAUGES ENABLE OPERATOR T DETERMINE MINIMUM PRESSURES TO EXTEND DIE LIFE.
A PIN MOUNT SYSTEM ON MAGNETIC MACHINES ENSURE THE ALIGNMENT OF THE P OOLS. CYLINDERS T-IN MICR TMENT CAPABILITIES TING. ULIC PRESSURE ASSEMBLIES ARE ADJUSTED VIA THE BL ACK WHEEL. INFINITE ADJUSTABLE UP TO 3,000 PSI CUTTING PRESSURE IS AVAI GAUGES ENABLE OPERATOR DETERMINE MINIMUM PRESSURES TO EXTEND DIE LIFE.
PIN MOUNT SYSTEM ON DUAL AGNETIC MACHINES ENSURE THE ALIGNMENT OF THE PAIRED OOLS. CYLINDERS -IN MICROABILITIES TO ULIC PRESSURE ASSEMBLIES ARE ADJUSTED EASI VIA THE BL ACK WHEEL. INFINITEL ADJUSTABLE UP TO 3,000 PSI OF CUTTING PRESSURE IS AVAIL ABLE. UGES ENABLE OPERATOR TO DETERMINE MINIMUM PRESSURES O EXTEND DIE LIFE.
HYDRAULIC PRESSURE ASSEMBLIES ARE ADJUSTED EASI VIA THE BL ACK WHEEL. INFINITE ADJUSTABLE UP TO 3,000 PSI OF CUTTING PRESSURE IS AVAIL ABLE. GAUGES ENABLE OPERATOR T DETERMINE MINIMUM PRESSURES TO EXTEND DIE LIFE.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT OUR HEAD OFFICE 72 Grady Crescent, Erskine Park, NSW, 2759, email: info@graph-pak.com.au Toll Free: 1300 885 550 www.graph-pak.com.au
ASSEMBLIES ARE ADJUSTED EASI VIA THE BL ACK WHEEL. INFINITE ADJUSTABLE UP TO 3,000 PSI OF CUTTING PRESSURE IS AVAIL ABLE. GAUGES ENABLE OPERATOR T DETERMINE MINIMUM PRESSURES TO EXTEND DIE LIFE.
ASK US ABOUT LAMINATING FILMS
As exhibited at DRUPA
As exhibited at DRUPA
Robert Neale from WestRock Packaging named LIA NSW Graduate of the Year
Apprentice lithographic printer Robert Neale from WestRock Packaging in Sydney has been named LIA NSW Graduate of the Year.
Neale was presented with his award during the Visual Connections event in Sydney to review the drupa exhibition recently held in Düsseldorf.
“This is a very humbling experience,” Neale told ProPack.
“I received a Certificate III in Printing and I have finished TAFE seven months early by putting in extra work, taking work home and working in my own time. I am only halfway through my third year and I am already on a machine at WestRock in North Richmond.
I am working on a Manroland 700 – it is a hybrid sheetfed press that does UV and Conventional which is good. WestRock have been a great company to work for.
“Over the next decade I hope to become a leader in the company – I aspire to join the management team in the future. I am 41 years – so I am not young and this is my
Jet Technologies launches Encore range with Impact Labels and Ultra Labels
Jet Technologies has announced the implementation of its Encore range of recycled content BOPP films in partnership with Impact Labels and Ultra Labels.
Impact Labels, a Brisbane-based Australian-owned and operated player in the label production industry since 2006, has been using Jet’s Encore range for the past six months.
Harry McFadyen, production manager at Impact Labels, said: “Our clients have been asking for an environmental solution for some time and we decided to trial Jet’s range of Encore films. We found the performance both on-press and at the point of label application to be equal to the previously supplied laminates. The choice was easy to move all our laminated work to the Encore range in order to offer a more sustainable solution for laminated products.”
Ultra Labels, an Australian-owned label and flexible packaging manufacturer
trade.
to packaging. This worked out for me as I joined before Covid and I have had a secure job in the packaging industry,” Neale said.
operating out of Brisbane and the Barossa Valley, has been using Encore films for more than a year.
Johnny Marusic, production manager at Ultra Labels, said Ultra Labels is known as a leading innovator in the label and digital flexible packaging space.
“Our clients expect that we use the most sustainable products in our production. We have found the Encore recycled film to be even better than the old film, with zero rejected rolls and improved adhesion to our print. As a result, we have moved all of our
laminated work to the Encore range.”
Jet Technologies offers a diverse portfolio in the films market that includes traditional BOPP and PET films as well as sensory options such as Soft Touch and Rough Touch ranges. In recent years, the company has focused on sustainability and solutions that meet the changing regulatory landscape.
Encore films contain a significant percentage of recycled content, helping to work towards meeting the APCO 2025 targets of initially 30 per cent and now 50 per cent recycled content in all plastic used in Australia.
Jack Malki, director, Jet Technologies, said the challenge of sourcing high-quality recycled resin that meets strict standards has been met with the Encore range.
“Initially introduced with a minimum of 20 per cent post-industrial recycled content, this figure was quickly upgraded to 30 per cent, with ISCC PLUS certification ensuring compliance.
“Recently, the inclusion of post-consumer waste resins has further enhanced the sustainability of Encore films,” he said.
“The future of sustainable packaging looks promising with Encore films. As more highquality recycled resins become available, the percentage of recycled content in Encore films will continue to increase, supporting printers and brand owners in achieving APCO targets.”
second
I started as a book binder at Rural Press working on Ferag, Muller, Sitma and Recmi devices and when I saw the writing on the wall I made the move
Robert Neale and the WestRock team at the Sydney drupa review event
Jet Technologies offers a diverse portfolio in the films market
Pozitive Signs & Graphic Supplies has announced the sale of the first Felix Gluer XY Gluer Plotter in Australia to Sydney-based printer, Clarke Murphy Print.
Pozitive first announced its partnership with the Warsaw-based automated gluing machine manufacturer earlier this year in May at drupa.
Pozitive managing director Philip Trumble said the Felix Gluer XY Gluer Plotter is a stateof-the-art solution for precise application of both hot melt and cold glues. It replaces hand gluing using a CNC XY movement of a glue gun and applies the glue by machine.
“When I first heard about Felix Gluer, I spoke to some of our clients to get a better understanding of what type of companies use gluing and why this type of machine would be important to their business. Clarke Murphy was one of those clients that I went to because we have such a good, long-term relationship with them,” said Trumble.
“What I found from this feedback was that a lot of clients use hand glue guns for assembling materials such as point of sale displays and short run packaging, so I saw that there was potential for this machine in the Australian market.
“I met up with the Felix team at FESPA earlier this year, went to Warsaw where the company is based and met some of their clients using Felix Gluer equipment and decided that this was the type of machine that we needed to bring to Australia.
Pozitive announces first Felix Gluer sale in Australia SIG launches
“We already sell the flatbed printers, we already sell the flatbed cutters, but we didn’t realise that after that customers need to use glue to assemble these elements together. This now completes the workflow of production with the equipment we already have so it fits perfectly into our current client base,” said Trumble.
“Not only that, we have high labour costs in Australia, and there are also OH&S risks around RSI associated injuries with manually holding glue guns so there are a lot of benefits to moving to automation and being able to redeploy staff to do other tasks.”
Following discussions with Clarke Murphy, Pozitive and Felix Gluer conducted demonstrations for Clarke Murphy owner Benn Murphy at the Felix Gluer booth at drupa, where Felix Gluer also launched the new twin-head Duet machine to complement
its single-head machine.
“This sale cements our partnership with Clarke Murphy Print even further,” said Trumble.
The machine is expected to be ready to ship within the next three months, with installation expected to be completed by the end of year.
“The Felix team will also be here for the install. It’s great to have a new partner like Felix that is motivated, passionate, and working so closely alongside our team.”
Trumble said since drupa, Pozitive has received a “steady pipeline of interest”.
“Some of the companies that are interested see it as an immediate need for their business, while there are others looking to implement it into their operations within the next 12 months. We expect this order to be the first of many more in Australia.”
SIG has introduced a recycle-ready bag for water, developed and manufactured in Australia. The current structure, which contains aluminium will be replaced by SIG Terra RecShield, a uniquely formulated material structure with a polymer composition. This means that all components of the bag-in-box packaging are now recycle-ready. The development is in line with the Australian 2025 National Packaging Targets which aim to further advance sustainable packaging practices.
Carmen Houston, SIG ANZ head of marketing and sustainability, said SIG has been working closely with the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO)
which oversees the implementation of the Australian 2025 National Packaging Targets.
“Our Australian-based research and development team have achieved a
significant milestone in advancing packaging technology, with our bag-in-box packaging for water having been assessed through the Packaging Recyclability Evaluation Portal (PREP) as having met the criteria for recyclability in Australia,” said Houston.
SIG’s bag-in-box packaging is designed to be recycle-ready and reduces the overall plastics use compared to rigid alternatives such as PET water bottles. Bag-in-box is designed to fit any container size or shape, giving brands the flexibility to fill many volumes with a variety of fitments on the same filling machine.
SIG’s Australian research and development team is now turning its attention to further minimising the carbon footprint of packaging. In the coming months, SIG will also introduce recycle-ready packaging alternatives for alcoholic beverages and food service applications.
The new recycle-ready packaging for water is now commercially available and consumers should begin to see it on supermarket shelves in mid to late September.
Slawomir Marć and Phil Trumble at drupa 2024
SIG has introduced a recycle-ready bag for water, developed and manufactured in Australia
Heidelberg ANZ continues 52-year support of LIA Graduate of the Year Awards
Heidelberg ANZ’s managing director, Savas Mystakidis, confirmed to ProPack that Heidelberg will continue its 52-year association as the sponsor of the LIA Graduate of the Year Awards.
Mystakidis told ProPack at the LIA NSW presentation in Sydney that he was very pleased to continue sponsoring the award that was presented this year to Robert Neale from WestRock Packaging in Sydney.
The LIA Heidelberg Graduate of the Year Award is one of the longest-running sponsorships in the local printing industry, dating back to 1972, when it was sponsored
Graph-Pak signs agreement to represent RE in Australia and New Zealand
Graph-Pak will take over from David Trigg to distribute the RE S.p.A. range of products in Australia and New Zealand.
Graph-Pak has signed a four-year agreement to represent the RE range of brakes, web guides, web viewing systems, mechanical chucks, safety chucks and load cells in Australia and New Zealand.
Graph-Pak owner Tom Ralph said it is with mixed emotions that he has taken over the distribution of the RE products from his old friend David Trigg in Adelaide as they have worked together for the last 25 years.
“David has been a loyal friend for the past 25 years and we have shared both good and bad times together. Unfortunately, this is not one of those good times, as David became sick last year and this is now about passing on the business due to unfortunate circumstances.
“David and I worked together at Edward Keller for a decade in Sydney before I started Graph-Pak in 2005. We were both engineers and then I ended up moving into sales and took over the Edward Keller agencies that started the Graph-Pak business that exists two decades later.
“Since I started Graph-Pak, David has been my right arm – he has been doing my engineering in Adelaide and we have attended every trade fair together for the past 20 years,” Ralph said.
“This is another blue-chip agency that has
by Seligson and Clare, the then Heidelberg agents in Australia.
The LIA Heidelberg Graduate of the Year Award is presented annually in each state at special award presentation dinners.
The winning graduate is selected by a highly qualified panel of LIA members and are nominated by TAFE teaching staff as the best students covering the various printing trades and certifications.
“It is a pleasure to sponsor the LIA Graduate of the Year awards. This is the future of our industry and we are more than happy to assist with nurturing the new talent coming forward,” Mystakidis told ProPack.
“As we all start to retire in the next five to 10 years, we need the next generation to come through otherwise there will be no industry. I applaud the employers as well as the apprentices who continue to bring them on board and see them through their management and Robert Neale could become the next manager of WestRock.
“I never thought I would end up where I am after 30 years when I started as a young cadet
coming through and I am living proof of that,” Mystakidis said.
Every two years, Heidelberg funds the airfares and accommodation of the winning state graduates to the LIA’s Biennial conference. There, apart from active participation in the conference program, they are individually interviewed by a national judging panel of eminent industry leaders and a winner is selected to receive the Visual Connections –LIA National Graduate Scholarship Prize.
A condition of acceptance of the Visual Connections—LIA National Graduate Scholarship Prize is that the money must be used to further the winner’s education. The announcement of the winner and the presentation of the Prize are the highlights of the conference gala dinner.
There are usually 10 graduates vying for the $15,000 prize, comprising the winning state graduates from the current and previous year. They are hosted by major printing companies, who provide informative plant tours and hospitality; they get to know each other and, in some cases, form lasting friendships.
come on board for Graph-Pak. I want to make David proud of his decision to pass the business to us and also recognise the vote of confidence from the team at RE in Italy. Our engineers are involved with RE products on a daily and weekly basis, so it was an easy decision to partner with RE and add this famous business to our portfolio. It further complements our commitment to supplying great after-market solutions for existing and new clients.”
RE sales manager, Vittorio Pugliese, told
ProPack he was very pleased to have Tom Ralph and the Graph-Pak team representing the Milan-based business.
“We have started this great collaboration following a recommendation from our friend David Trigg and we are looking forward to expanding our business together in Australia and New Zealand. Tom and Anthony from Graph-Pak are technically very experienced, and we are always available for customer service and support,” Pugliese said.
Anthony Arcuri (Graph-Pak), Vittorio Pugliese (RE S.p.A.), and Tom Ralph (Graph-Pak)
New report highlights concerns over microplastics among packaging experts in FMCG sector
A new study1 by Aquapak, ‘FMCG flexible packaging: accelerating the move from plastic to paper’, based on research with 100 UK packaging experts responsible for packaging R&D, technology, design, and sustainability for FMCG brands, highlights their concern over the use of plastic packaging by their business and the impact of microplastics in oceans, waterways and living organisms, including humans.
Over one third (37 per cent) of respondents said that they are extremely concerned and 63 per cent said they are quite concerned. Microplastics are tiny plastic particles up to 5mm in diameter that result from both commercial product development and the breakdown of larger plastics. In the last four decades, concentrations of these particles appear to have increased significantly and, as a pollutant, microplastics can be harmful to the environment and animal health.
The majority (84 per cent) of those surveyed said there should be much tougher
Detpak launches Eco-Products range into Southeast Asia and Middle East
South Australian-based packaging solutions company Detpak is launching its Eco-Products range into Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Formerly only available in Australia and New Zealand, the Eco-Products from Detpak range will provide customers in these markets a broader choice of compostable, no-added PFAS sugarcane food service packaging, including plates, bowls, and containers.
Detpak’s expansion into Southeast Asia and the Middle East marks the largest range of compostable and no-added PFAS products introduced to these markets by the brand.
Detmold general manager of product and brand, Keith Bishop, said the partnership with Eco-Products and the extension into new markets will enable Detpak to meet increasing customer demand for sustainable packaging and complements Detpak’s existing range of packaging solutions.
“In Southeast Asia and the Middle East, consumers are becoming increasingly
The study is based on research with 100 UK packaging experts responsible for packaging R&D, technology, design, and sustainability for FMCG brands.
regulations to help kerb the introduction of microplastics into the environment, with just 6 per cent disagreeing with this course of action, and 10 per cent didn’t know.
Whilst the majority (92 per cent) of those questioned plan to stop using plastic in their consumer packaging altogether and move to more paper-based materials, the timeframe for transition is still considerable, with only per cent expecting to achieve this goal by 2026, 27 per cent by 2027, 35 per cent by 2028 and 28 per cent by 2029. However, on a more positive note, 86 per cent said that their business is prepared to spend more on packaging to improve sustainability and end-of-life outcomes which, ultimately, will reduce the risk of harmful microplastics being released into the environment.
Detpak launched the Vanguard range in late 2023
Over a half (56 per cent) said their business would be willing to pay 4 per cent – 5 per cent more for proven, environmentally friendly packaging materials, compared to existing plastics. One third said their business would pay between 6 per cent and 9 per cent more, and 8 per cent said between 10 per cent – 20 per cent more.
Taking a longer-term view, one quarter expect their business to increase its investment in packaging material with better recyclability and end of life outcomes dramatically, 40 per cent expect it to increase slightly and 35 per cent expect it to stay the same as today.
Dr John Williams, chief technical officer at Aquapak, said: “Microplastics are one of the most problematic consequences of plastic in the environment. The truth is that we are only just starting to fully understand the damage they are causing to the food chain and the long-term effects they will have. Our research shows that the FMCG sector is very conscious of the problem, but the pace of change remains slow.
“New packaging materials such as Hydropol, an innovative polymer developed by Aquapak, already exist which do not harm the environment when they come to the end of their useful life and still provide the functionality and product protection needed. In the case of Hydropol, it breaks down without the formation of harmful microplastics.”
1 Research conducted by PureProfile with 100 packaging experts working for FMCG brands in the UK, in March 2024
concerned about food waste and used packaging disposal and more conscious of composting and using more products made from recycled content,” Bishop said.
“By expanding our product range into new and emerging international markets, we are stepping up to create a more sustainable packaging industry through compostable and plant-based materials that are better for the environment – such as the no-added PFAS Vanguard range.”
Detpak launched the Vanguard range in
late 2023, becoming the first Australian business to release a broad range of certified compostable, no-added PFAS sugarcane plates, bowls and containers, made from renewable, molded sugarcane fibre.
Eco-Products president, Ian Jacobson, explained how the partnership would help service global trends being seen within the market.
“Globally, both Eco-Products and Detpak are seeing a range of similar legislative and consumer trends that are impacting the packaging landscape,” Jacobson said.
“We are excited to continue strengthening the partnership between Eco-Products and Detpak.
“Both businesses have a strong strategic focus to deliver innovative and sustainable packaging solutions to the market and together we have unmatched reach in our ability to identify and commercialize innovative new solutions the meet the elevated sustainability requirements of the global foodservice packaging marketplace.”
The Vanguard range from Eco-Products uses a unique proprietary formulation to achieve grease resistance without relying on the addition of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). The Vanguard range is made with renewable materials and certified compostable.
Great Wrap partners with Opal ANZ to distribute Australian made compostable pallet wrap
Melbourne-based Great Wrap aims to produce 5000 tonnes of certified compostable machine pallet wrap in 2024 for distribution through its partnership with Opal.
Great Wrap, a B Corp Certified material science company, has partnered with Opal, an Australian and New Zealand cardboard and recycling packaging company, to exclusively offer the only Australian-made Compostable Machine Pallet Wrap for businesses of all sizes in Australia and New Zealand. This will enable them to divert traditional pallet wrap away from landfills.
Great Wrap’s Certified Compostable Machine Pallet Wrap, certified by the Australasian Bioplastics Association, is made with compostable biopolymers and plantbased oils. It is a packaging solution for businesses that secures pallet loads while minimising supply chain waste. Given that Australia generates 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, there is an urgent need to adopt compostable materials.
Opal Packaging Plus, appointed as the exclusive distributor of the Certified Compostable Machine Pallet Wrap, is a
Dates announced for Labelexpo South China 2024
The organisers of Labelexpo Global Series have announced Labelexpo South China 2024 will take place on 4-6 December 2024 at Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center.
Returning to Shenzhen for the first time since 2020, Labelexpo South China 2024 builds on the success of the previous edition which saw 130 exhibitors showcase their latest label and packaging printing machinery as well as a total of 8,778 visitors attend the three-day show.
Jade Grace, managing director, Labelexpo Global Series said: “We’re delighted to welcome exhibitors and visitors back to Shenzhen for Labelexpo South China 2024 later this year. South China remains a vitally important market for the label and package printing industry, with Chinese-produced labels accounting for 58 per cent of the total Asian label market. We can therefore promise
business unit of Opal. Great Wrap will add to Opal Packaging Plus’s product range by more than 15,000; it is the first compostable stretch wrap it offers.
Jordy Kay, co-founder of Great Wrap said, “Our machine pallet wrap stands out because it is fully compostable, capable of a 250 per cent pre-stretch, operates smoothly on highspeed lines, and maintains high tension for ultimate reliability. Our wrap is denser and
stronger than traditional wrap, meaning our customers can reduce their wrap thickness to achieve the same results as they would with traditional wrap.”
Chris Daly, executive general manager of packaging at Opal, said the company is helping shape the future of sustainable packaging.
“Through our commitment to our vision, Opal shapes the future through sustainable packaging; we have the advantage of being able to offer our customers integrated and innovative products. We’re excited to include Great Wrap’s Certified Compostable Machine Pallet Wrap within Opal Packaging Plus’ extensive range of products.”
The Australian Government has set national packaging targets, including 100 per cent reusable, recyclable, or compostable packaging by 2025 and 70 per cent recycled or compostable plastic packaging by 2025.
Julia Kay, co-founder of Great Wrap said, “Globally, people have been trying to recycle plastic packaging for 50 years, but only 9 per cent of our recycled materials go through the recycling system, showing us the infrastructure isn’t perfect, and emphasising the need to diversify and explore more endof-life options, such as commercial composting, so we aren’t reliant on one waste stream.”
Great Wrap is also working to build a biorefinery that will produce a marinedegradable material called PHA to continue changing the packaging landscape.
Later this year, Great Wrap is also planning to supply its Compostable Hand Pallet Wrap for exclusive distribution through Opal packaging Plus.
visitors an inspiring three days at one of the world’s most impressive exhibition venues, where they will get to see the very latest technology and machinery that is shaping the future direction of this dynamic industry.”
Kevin Liu, event director for Labelexpo South China 2024 added: “South China is a key region for the labels and package printing industry and we’re looking forward to
hosting Labelexpo South China 2024 once again at Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center on 4-6 December. Shenzhen is a vibrant hub for business and innovation, which makes it the perfect location, once again for visitors and exhibitors alike to find investment opportunities and foster new business relationships on the show floor.”
Labelexpo South China 2024 will take place on 4-6 December 2024
Great Wrap co-founders Julia and Jordy Kay
Hybrid Software at drupa 2024
ProPack toured Hybrid Software’s drupa stand including its informative educational sessions and innovative product demonstrations.
Hybrid Software completed more than 1200 demonstrations at drupa 2024
Hybrid Software held regular educational sessions on its stand
Hybrid Software’s Color Logic colour management solutions were also on display
Hybrid Software IC3D packaging software was demonstrated for product visualisation and prototyping
The exhibition stand brought together all elements of the company’s business for the first time
The Hybrid family of software solutions including Enterprise Production Workflows, Native PDF Editors, Colour Management Solutions, High Speed Digital Front Ends, Printhead Drive Electronics as well as 3D rendering and visualisation
Hybrid Software’s MyPACKZ software as a service (SaaS) pre-press editor cloud software that complements the MyCLOUDFLOW was on display
Hybrid Software demonstrated its Xitron prepress workflow software
Hybrid Software demonstrated its Meteor industrial inkjet software solutions
Hybrid Software had hundreds of demonstrations for the MyCLOUDFLOW software at drupa
Hybrid Software Capture 3D software helps companies render and create 3D models
AniCAMHD
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Nekkorb celebrates 15 years serving the industry
With a commitment to the labels, print, and packaging community, Nekkorb continues to innovate.
Starting Nekkorb Solutions in April 2009, on the back of the largest global financial crises since the great depression, seemed to some like a crazy and brave move but Frank and Claire Brokken were up for the challenge.
Frank has ink in veins, having started in the printing industry in 1975 as a flexographic printing apprentice. He subsequently moved to technical sales positions at leading ink manufacturer Morrison Printing Inks and flexographic printing plate giant (DuPont). His time working for these companies gave him the knowledge that enabled him to add value to all printing and converting companies and supply partners that Nekkorb has had pleasure working with over the years.
Through his process knowledge and extensive travelling around the world, he created a strong portfolio of foundation products for Nekkorb to start trading. Some of those initial supply companies like 3M, Zecher, TKM and WINK remain Nekkorb partners. He says, “It goes to show great products and good working relations stand the test of time.
“Other great companies that make up Nekkorb’s product portfolio today include industry leading recognised manufactures, MPS, Dantex, Vinfoil, Gietz, DuPont, AVT, x-rite and Esko.”
Nekkorb’s commercial manager Tash (Natasha) Brokken, Frank and Claire’s eldest daughter, has worked in the business for the past 12 years. She will eventually take over the running of the business continuing its founding values of respect, trust, innovation, and sustainability.
Nekkorb’s great product portfolio is full of gems, among them:
MPS
Frank calls the MPS Narrow and Mid web label and packaging machines the most advanced machines in their category
today. Since 1996, MPS has only made servo driven machines. Designed with an operator focused process in mind, they feature slide out printing units that can be easily set up safely outside the machine while it is still running; ink curing on the chill roller rather than the impression roller to reduce material wastage and downtime cleaning cured ink; and extensive data collection capabilities.
Dantex
The new Dantex Pico Technology allows printers to test, tweak and turn around custom label orders fast. The modular designed Pico range offers numerous options for inline finishing; die-cutting, lamination, backlit/edge trim, slitting and rewinding. You can personalise every label, create short runs for A/B testing or simply trial label alternatives for a product launch. Frank says, “The Picocolour and PicoJet machines accelerate the time to market and maximise your return on investment. They achieve outstanding whiteness and extremely high print quality in a single pass.”
Bar Graphic Machinery
This market leader shines in the design and manufacture of label finishing, die cutting slitter rewinders, digital label converting finishing systems and flexible packaging finishing equipment. Frank says, “In-house technical innovation has been the driving force behind BGM’s with constant product development to meet the changing needs and requirements of customers. Offering a three-year guarantee on all in-house manufactured parts, BGM delivers outstanding after sales service and product support.”
Wink flexible dies and tooling
One of the world’s leading manufacturers of cutting tools for the graphic industry with the motto “You Cut We Care”, Wink makes precision tools for printers, and converters all over the world. Frank says, “We are surrounded by products, that
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acquire final shape through die-cutting. Wink’s flawless quality in its die-cut products is crucial for our customers’ success. Depending on the sector and material involved, Wink must meet very different requirements, when it comes to specifications for its cutting tools. From kiss-cutting to cutting-through, perforating, creasing, and embossing. Wink tailors its tools perfectly to meet the requirements of the individual.”
Zecher anilox
Zecher, founded in Germany 75 years ago, focuses solely on the manufacture of anilox. Frank says, “For the highest quality and engraving consistency Zecher
Building for the future: Tash and Frank Brokken
continues to deliver on its promises and develop new ‘First in industry’ technologies that others try to copy.”
Closed loop
For a full closed loop and secure process solution Nekkorb has partnered with Esko, x-rite and AVT. From design software, plate production, process measuring and control to 100 per cent inspection of the finished print this partnership deliver the highest quality print, faster and consistent with less downtime and wastage.
Frank treasures his place in the business, using his 49 years’ experience in the industry to help Tash build her team for the future.
Bring new life back into your old printing machine
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Stop playing the piano
PrintLounge diversifies with new
Durst Tau 340 RSC E LED label press
After two decades as an offset printing specialist, Auckland-based PrintLounge is embracing the new business opportunities available from digital diversification including its recent investment in a Durst Tau 340 RSC E LED label press.
Just weeks after installation in June this year, PrintLounge owner Steve Sheppard is already seeing an immediate return on investment from his new Durst Tau 340 RSC E LED label press.
“When we bought the Durst we wanted to upgrade our existing toner based solution to a machine that would produce quality labels at 1200dpi with a wider colour gamut and would allow us to market ourselves to pretty much anybody who came to us looking to put something on a supermarket shelf.
“Unfortunately the equipment we had before the Durst didn’t have white ink, so this meant we were saying no to a lot of jobs when we were quoting – and I hate saying no to work.
“Since we installed the Durst we have brought back in-house a number of
customers that we previously had to outsource to other label companies. We have also been winning new work from many sources, including social media, where we have always been active.
“Just this morning we received an order from a client that wanted 2000 labels within a week as their current label company was unable to do it. Later in the morning we received a second job from the same company – and these jobs will be perfect for the Durst.”
Upgrading to the Durst
Durst head of sales for labels and packaging, Graham Blackall, first discussed a label solution with PrintLounge over five years ago. Although Blackall was unsuccessful with the sale on that occasion, he has maintained a close
relationship with Sheppard and the PrintLounge ever since, so when he joined Durst at the end of last year, he knew the Tau would suit their business perfectly.
“I have been working with Steve for the last 25 years after he gave me a phone call about some second hand equipment and since then I have sold him nothing but new equipment. He is an entrepreneurial businessman as well as a craftsman that has a strong understanding and appreciation of the machines,” Blackall said.
“About five years ago, Steve recognised he needed to diversify his business due to the pressures on offset and the reduction in order volumes. What I was offering at the time was too big a step for his company and he bought another machine that was more cost effective. I told him to buy a very
PrintLounge digital operator - Mike Anderson, pre-press digital supervisor - Brittney Anderson, general manager - Greg Daniel and owner - Steve Sheppard with the new Durst Tau 340 RSC E LED label press.
good finishing unit, as he would only be buying it once.
“PrintLounge quickly outgrew their previous label press, and after a lot of consideration he went with the Tau 340 RSC E LED because he wanted to have the ability to talk to anybody about any quality of labels with no limitations – whether it was about colour gamut, quality, productivity as well as support and service. The process of upgrading to the second machine was a nine-month discussion. It was a serious investigation into the labels category from day one five years ago about a very deliberate diversification process from dipping the toe into the category through to now purchasing the Durst label press.”
Researching the market
Sheppard finally settled on the Durst Tau 340 RSC E LED within the last hours of the final day of Labelexpo Brussels in September 2023 after numerous discussions and researching the market on both sides of the Tasman.
“We were looking for a machine that could advance us from our original label press we had at the time that was only running CMYK and had a limited colour gamut. We had to choose something that everyone else wasn’t doing and this is why we have gone down this path and that’s why it has been successful,” Sheppard said.
“By upgrading we wanted to increase our colour gamut and we wanted white so we could print on clear and silver polypropylene stocks and really open up the label market for us to a wide range of other jobs. We had come to a certain point with our previous machine where it was going well, but we were missing out on jobs because it didn’t have the orange and
green that the Durst can do and we also need white ink as well.
“Before we bought the Durst, we were pretty much decided on another machine that was 600dpi and we thought the Durst was out of reach for us. Even though the price was a little higher, the Durst ticked a lot of boxes for us – build
The PrintLounge business has continued to diversify into digital printing over the last 10 years to guarantee growth in a competitive market.
Steve Sheppard from PrintLounge (centre) purchased the Durst Tau 340 RSC E LED from Matt Ashman (left) and Graham Blackall (right) at Labelexpo Europe in 2023.
quality, 1200dpi resolution, colour gamut and white ink. Plus the Durst is upgradeable to 80 linear metres per minute, so the machine can grow with us!
“We had done plenty of homework over about nine months including travelling to Australia and inspecting various machines in Melbourne and Brisbane. I visited a number of different printers with similar Durst machines in Australia including the 1200dpi machine and a slightly older machine. They all had very good things to say about the Durst technology.”
Digitial diversification
“We are definitely trying to diversify here at PrintLounge – if we look back 10 years ago we didn’t have a digital offering and now it represents a solid double digit percentage of our turnover. You have to diversify your business – you can’t go on doing the same thing otherwise you will not survive,” Sheppard said.
“Like a lot of other businesses, we started off as a conventional printer and now we offer commercial print, packaging, digital printing and rolls labels. Our diversification into roll labels has been one of the best things we could have done as the label market is growing –particularly here in New Zealand.
“There are a lot of label printers with an old school mentality where they are only offering lead times of two to three weeks. We are seeing this as an opportunity for our business. Now we have the Durst, we
have started to print labels using white ink as well as clear work and all of the different colours. The quality is great and we can also add varnishes on top. We recently ran a 3400 metre job in just over an hour with three role changes on the Durst – and that wasn’t even at the top speed. This means we can almost compete with flexo over shorter runs which is very exciting. We have also invested in an LED offset press, so it seemed like the correct path to invest in LED with the Durst as well over a conventional mercury lamp – less power and less heat and it also delivers a nicer drying system that works very well.”
Training and installation
With over 42 years of experience as an analog printer and letterpress specialist, PrintLounge digital operator Mike Anderson was recently trained up to become the operator of the Durst Tau 340 RSC E LED label press.
“I’m seeing a much bigger range of nice bright strong greens and pinks from the colour gamut on the Durst that I have not seen on any other label printer. And when you compare the Durst to other machines –the analog or offset machines are not even close. It is especially notable when you profile the material and see the full range of colours it can do. Since I have had an analog printing background already, the transition to the Durst was not very complicated. The key for me is to know what to do when you need to make a colour adjustment and my conventional background has made my transition quite easy.”
Software integration
Brittney Anderson, who has worked with PrintLounge as pre-press digital supervisor for over four years has recently started working with the Durst software including the Workflow Plus modules.
“The Durst label press software and Workflow Plus software has been amazing to work with. Every day after I started playing around I would find more features and say ‘Oooh that’s cool’ – such as being able to create a die-line as well as the white in the software. There is so much in it and we essentially don’t even need to use Pitstop or anything beforehand –you can drop the file in and do everything within the software. The way everything is laid out makes it very easy to understand. Things that can be quite difficult with pre-press with other software is a click of a button on the Durst software.”
Durst Oceania managing director, Matt Ashman, said he is very pleased to have another label press installed in New Zealand.
“I am very proud that an innovative business such as PrintLounge has invested in the Durst Tau 340 RSC E LED. This is a company that has always tried to push the boundaries of what was considered the norm. They have always tailored their business to focus on what their customers need and this a testament to their continued success and growth in a very competitive market.”
Pre-press digital supervisor, Brittany Anderson, has found the Durst software packages to be very easy to use.
PrintLounge GM Greg Daniel and owner Steve Sheppard operate the Durst Tau RSC 340 E LED label press
Changing gears with RFID
RFID label technology has emerged as a game-changer for the automotive industry.
When Walmart announced in 2003 that its 100 largest suppliers would be required to use RFID tags on every case and pallet shipped to the retailer’s stores, tiremaker Goodyear Tire & Rubber volunteered to participate in this process.
Fast forward to 2020, Walmart again adopted RFID tags in its retail apparel sector and saw the benefits of inventory management, resulting in a better in-store shopping experience for customers, additional online and in-store pickup opportunities, and improved sales potential. This led Walmart to expand RFID deployment to other categories including automotive tyres and batteries, in 2022.
As both Walmart and Goodyear learned, RFID integration not only streamlines car manufacturers’ processes, but also creates transparent integration with parts suppliers – and enables all the potential benefits of the digital transformation. Embracing this technology can give car manufacturers a competitive edge in this quickly changing industry.
As Sean Lowry, president at auto ID specialist Lowry Solutions, says: “A good solution, like RFID tags, makes everyone’s work easier by offering unprecedented levels of efficiency, accuracy, and visibility in logistics and tracking operations.
The automotive industry is expanding the use cases for RFID, from prototype testing to personalisation and smart after-sale
By utilising radio waves to automatically identify and track objects, RFID systems have transformed the auto industry, enabling seamless supply chain management and enhancing overall operational performance – ultimately reducing stress and boosting the bottom line.”
The automotive labels market
According to Consegic Business Intelligence, the automotive labels market is anticipated to be worth $US10.7 million by 2030, showing significant growth from its value of $US6.9 million in 2022. This growth is expected to be at a CAGR of 5.7 per cent during the period from 2023 to 2030.
RFID technology is a key driver in this market, adding value to traditional labelling methods. A passive RFID label allows data to be read from and written to an integral chip attached to an antenna which is powered from an external radio frequency source. These chips contain unique identification codes, which are ‘read’ by radio transceivers. RFID can be used to provide information about a product and track its location, and update that information wherever a powered read/write unit is located.
RFID tag and label manufacturer FineLine Technologies has built a global reputation
for its work within the tyre industry, as well as aviation, entertainment and retail industries.
George Hoffman, chairman and CEO of FineLine Technologies, says RFID is revolutionising how items are tracked throughout the supply chain; at the source, distribution centre, warehouse, and at the point of use.
“RFID tag and label technology enables superior track and trace capabilities and dramatically shortens the time required for inventory management while increasing accuracy to near-perfect levels. As tyres leave the manufacturer, they can now be tracked throughout the supply chain and into warehouses. From there, tyres can be tracked through distribution, resale and even in the field. Finally, at the end of a tyre’s lifecycle, the tyre can be tracked all the way through recycling, re-manufacturing, or to the point of becoming waste material – leading to reducing carbon footprint.”
“Intelligent labels are having a profound impact on the automotive supply chain by providing real-time visibility into the movement of parts and components.”
According to tyre manufacturer Goodyear, RFID provides numerous advantages over barcodes, including more information storage, better durability and the ability to retrieve data from a distance.
Beyond the obvious supply chain benefits, Goodyear sees value for the consumer.
The tyremaker has been collaborating with Siemens VDO to provide tyre electronics solutions through the TireIQ system which relays specific tire information to drivers through a custom ‘tyre tag,’ composed of a computer chip and sensor that are built into the tire. The system provides the driver with warnings when improper inflation is detected.
Goodyear’s investment in RFID has also led to more efficient supply chain operations, improved business processes and lower operating costs.
Put to use
Intelligent labels are having a profound impact on the automotive supply chain by providing real-time visibility into the movement of parts and components. This visibility allows companies to track inventory levels, monitor the location of assets, and identify potential bottlenecks in the supply chain. By leveraging this data, automotive companies can make informed decisions to optimise their supply chain operations and improve overall efficiency.
“The automotive industry has long been a pioneer when it comes to RFID transponders, deploying the technology for use across a range of demanding and rigorous scenarios,” shares Lauri Hyytinen, market development manager for automotive at Avery Dennison. “Our work with partners supports the innovation initiatives of leading automotive players, providing them with more than just accurate and reliable tracking. RFID tags can be implemented across various components of an automobile starting from tires, seats, bumpers as well as some decorative elements in the interior of a car. Today everything is possible with a little innovation and customisation.”
RFID is no longer used only for track and trace. The automotive industry is expanding the use cases for RFID.
• In prototype testing: When testing prototypes, Porsche requires that drivers fill out paperwork and speak with employees at the gate to exit the facility. By using a RAIN RFID enabled access solution, Porsche eliminated this hassle and increased security around its prototype operations. As a vehicle approaches the gates, readers capture the RAIN RFID tag attached to its windshield, recording the location and ID number. If the vehicle was approved to leave, the system permits it. The process is repeated upon re-entry.
• Storage and shipping: Another German automaker, Audi, deployed Avery Dennison Smartrac’s Dogbone UHF tags, attached to the inside of the front bumper, to record information about each car’s position in the finishing, storage and shipping processes. This resulted in reduced labour for drivers who locate and transport the vehicles, as well as increased visibility for production management.
• Improve racing performance: Bridgestone Japan and Sumitomo Rubber Industries motorsport department selected Avery Dennison Maxdura Tire Tag for endurance racing applications.
Avery Dennison’s Hyytinen states that teams benefit from a range of unprecedented new data to help them prepare and improve race performance. “Since a unique identifier can be assigned to each tire, information can be read automatically and used by the teams and the organizers to identify precisely which tires are in use. This automation enables teams to optimize real-time inventory, logistics and make the race more interesting for spectators. Providing a unique ID for each tire also improves reuse and recycling processes after the race to make events more sustainable.”
• Increase customer satisfaction: Nemak, a global automotive parts manufacturing company headquartered in México, partnered with Teklynx International, to implement the Teklynx Central enterprise label management system.
Comments Nick Recht, Teklynx Americas sales manager, “The technology helped Nemak automate label printing from SAP integration to eliminate manual errors and achieve a 98 per cent improvement in labeling accuracy and 100 per cent improvement in labeling efficiency— which ultimately led to an increase in Nemak’s customer satisfaction rating by 75 per cent.”
• Payment transactions: Engineering and technology company Honeywell has developed a windshield-mounted IT70 RFID tag that can be used for highway tolling applications and electronic vehicle registration, as well as vehicle access and parking or fuel payment systems.
According to Honeywell, the tag incorporates a range of cryptographic devices to provide two-way authentication and data security with up to six access keys with fully configurable privileges. Although commonly used for toll lanes and parking bays, the RFID tags could also be used for other electronic payment transactions such as buying gas without having to leave the car.
• Anti-counterfeiting: In 2021 alone 1.86 million counterfeit Mercedes Benz products were seized in 650 customs raids. The sale of counterfeit car parts and components not only has financial repercussions but also affects the safety of drivers and passengers. Popular among the counterfeited parts are brake pads, airbags, windshields, lights and wheels. The company’s solution involved a combination of
UHF RFID tags, crypto-signatures, holograms and barcodes.
• Personalisation and customisation: RFID technology empowers automotive manufacturers to manufacture personalised and customisable vehicles. RFID tags can store customer preferences and desired configurations, allowing manufacturers to tailor vehicles according to individual needs. From interior settings to infotainment options, RFID-driven personalisation enhances the customer experience and builds brand loyalty.
Using Impinj RAIN RFID, Volvo manages the production of custom cars made to meet individual customer requests. RAIN RFID tags are permanently mounted on the chassis of the car at the beginning of the manufacturing process and are used to uniquely identify each vehicle and reliably track it through the production process. It ensures custom orders are built correctly.
• Enhancing user experience: RFID technology can transform the driving experience, making it more seamless and user-friendly. Keyless entry and ignition systems using RFID tags simplify vehicle access for owners, enhancing convenience. Additionally, RFID-labelled infotainment systems and smart controls makes driving more interactive and engaging. The ease of using RFIDbased features enhances customer satisfaction and fosters brand loyalty.
• Smart after-sales service: RFID enables more intelligent and efficient after-sales service. By equipping vehicles with RFID tags, manufacturers and service centres can remotely access real-time diagnostic data, identifying potential issues before they escalate. Proactive maintenance reminders and remote diagnostics streamline the servicing process, reducing downtime and customer inconvenience. RFID-driven smart after-sales services lead to increased customer loyalty and retention.
• Prioritise sustainability: Bridgestone Tires is planning to help reduce the carbon footprint of its commercial vehicle line of tires by producing RFIDtagged tires in 2024. Tires on vehicles like trucks and buses will be linked to a cloud-based system that is designed to help clients maximize the tires’ lifespan and minimize their carbon footprint.
RFID tags now have many other uses in the auto industry, from warning lights alerting technicians to particular problems to automated systems that can correctly track inventory levels across production lines.
RFID labels and tags offer a wide various other benefits:
• Transportation companies can better track large fleets in real-time
• Car dealerships can quickly gain information about which vehicles are available, rented, or need maintenance
• Rental services can instantly provide customers with information about which vehicles are rented out
• Auto manufacturers can streamline parts tracking and gain insights into usage patterns so they can predict products to prioritise.
What’s next?
Integration with loT: The integration of RFID with the Internet of Things (IoT) opens up new possibilities in transportation management. By combining RFID technology with sensors and other IoT devices, transportation companies can gather a wealth of data and gain valuable insights. For instance, RFID-enabled tags or labels can monitor temperature and humidity levels in perishable goods during transit, ensuring their quality and freshness. This integration enhances safety, reduces waste, and allows for proactive maintenance of vehicles and infrastructure. As the IoT develops, the benefits of smart tagging with RFID will become more apparent. It will provide new opportunities to increase customer convenience and safety and offer label converters a way to differentiate their products and improve the operational efficiency of their customers.
Collaboration with ecosystem partners: Collaboration between RFID tech providers, automotive manufacturers and logistics service providers will lead to the development of a new range of customised applications.
For example, Avery Dennison is working with Wiliot to create a sticker-sized Bluetooth sensor tag incorporating an ARM processor powered solely by scavenging energy from ambient radio frequencies.
“Wiliot’s strategy for battery-free Bluetooth transponders, which sense and communicate without needing specific action by consumers, is very relevant to Avery Dennison’s intelligent RFID label strategy,” explains Hyytinen. “We believe in a future where every item will have a unique digital identity and a digital life, benefiting both consumers and brands, with relevant and contextual information. We see this as an extension to our RFID solutions, enabling consumers to connect with products through multiple smartphones and IoT devices from end to end.”
Emerging markets: Rapid industrialisation, urbanisation, and rising disposable income has led to more consumption and sale of vehicles in emerging markets. As per McKinsey, over the last 10 years, automotive sales in emerging markets, such as China, India and Brazil, have proved not only resilient but also, until recently, more robust than many experts would have predicted. Electric vehicles (EVs) are expected to account for 26 per cent of global vehicle sales by 2030, with China leading the way as the largest EV market in the world. This has presented significant growth opportunities for the automotive RFID market.
Technological advancements: Traditionally, RFID tags were rigid, limiting their application to flat, non-flexible surfaces. However, the advent of flexible RFID tags has revolutionised the industry. These soft RFID tags, made from materials like special plastics, paper or fabrics, are suitable for curved surfaces or applications requiring a certain level of flexibility.
In the automotive and electronics industries, a specialised type of soft RFID tag is increasingly being utilised. These tags’ unique antenna designs allow them to adhere to and function on metal surfaces like car engines and electronic device casings, overcoming traditional RFID limitations.
Challenges and opportunities
RFID technology in industrial manufacturing can significantly speed up production and reduce manual labour. However, it is not without its challenges.
The RFID tags must be durable enough to withstand the extreme pressures and temperatures of car assembly. “They might not be readable at these temperatures, but they will survive and can be read when back when at operating temperature,” clarifies Hoffman, of FineLine Technologies.
Furthermore, RFID systems can be vulnerable to radio frequency jamming, particularly in crowded spaces. In a crowded environment, multiple RFID tags operating in close proximity can interfere with each other and cause collision issues. This can lead to difficulties in accurately identifying and tracking individual tags.
“In most cases, we can find workarounds that allow the labels to work appropriately,” comments Hyytinen. “For example, by carefully positioning and tuning the reader’s signal, you can ensure it is not blocked or is in any way interfered with. By using FlagTag or foam tags on a metal surface, we make sure that the tags can backscatter without signal disturbance.”
Finally, RFID tags have a limited range of data transmission, which means they are unable to capture and transmit information when used at a distance.
Explains Hyytinen: “Most RFID labels have a read range of 10 metres or more, provided nothing interferes with the radio signals; but for every reading point, you must fine-tune the reader to the optimum settings. Sometimes this involves reducing the power and the reading range.”
In conclusion, intelligent labels are transforming the automotive industry by providing enhanced supply chain visibility, improved inventory management, and increased efficiency. As the market for automotive labels continues to grow, driven by trends such as Industry 4.0, integration of IoT and the increasing demand for sustainable labelling, there are significant opportunities for growth and innovation in the industry. By embracing intelligent labels, automotive companies can improve their operations, enhance their brand image, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
The use of RFID technologies provides the automotive supply chain with real-time visibility into the movement of parts and component
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Labels & packaging innovation on show at Labelexpo Americas 2024
The leading event in the Americas for the labels and package printing industry Labelexpo Americas 2024 returns this September, showcasing a range of cutting-edge innovations.
Labelexpo Americas, the only dedicated event in the region for the labels and package printing industry, is taking place from Tuesday 10 September until Thursday 12 September in Chicago.
Hundreds of live demonstrations of flexo presses along with digital technology and finishing equipment will be on display, along with education content and networking sessions that aim to bring the international package printing community together.
The show feature areas will also include a Flex Pack Factory, a focused area for flexible packaging and an RFID Zone and Innovation Stage, focusing on automation, RFID technology application and development.
Other highlights include the Opening Night Party featuring the Label Industry Global Awards, an evening to honour
organisations and individuals who have excelled in the label and package printing sector within the past two years.
With just a few weeks to go, some of the industry’s leading manufacturers have announced the new products and technologies they will be unveiling. Here’s a roundup of some of the products not to be missed.
A B Graphic International (ABG)
A B Graphic International (ABG) will be showcasing a range of cutting-edge innovations designed to enhance productivity and efficiency. Key highlights include the NSU Lite, a new addition to ABG’s non-stop winding range. This new system will be demonstrated in-line with ABG’s 4th generation converter platform and the recently launched Vectra AutoSet Turret Rewinder, demonstrating seamless integration and nonstop capabilities.
Additionally, ABG will present its flagship Digicon Series 3, including the ABG Connect workflow system. This system exemplifies ABG’s commitment to automation and streamlined processes, allowing users to experience significant improvements in operational efficiency. A full beverage specification Digicon will also be on display.
Providing a comprehensive overview of ABG’s extensive product range, live demonstrations of several key solutions will be available. These include SRI’s, a DigiLite, DigiLase and Shrink Sleeve solutions, each designed to address specific industry challenges and enhance production capabilities.
Durst
Durst North America is anticipated to showcase a captivating lineup at this year’s Labelexpo Americas 2024. The brand-new hybrid KJet, launched at
Labelexpo Americas will take place from 10-12 September in Chicago
drupa earlier this year, will be presented alongside the globally recognised Durst Tau RSCi, and Durst’s award-winning Software and Solutions.
Making its American debut, the KJet is an impressive end-to-end solution that combines OMET’s dual servo flexo printing units with Durst’s state-of-the-art RSCi inkjet technology. Modules for finishing and further processing (such as cold foil stamping or die-cutting units) can be integrated into the KJet, offering flexibility and an enormously broad application portfolio. In addition, the configuration of the KJet can be tailored to the specific requirements of each customer.
Returning to Labelexpo Americas is the Durst Tau RSCi. Designed for an industrial level of productivity, this printer offers the highest quality, in the most economical way. Available in printing widths of 330, 420 or 510mm, the printer is a real productivity workhorse with printing speeds up to 100m/min. The printer can be equipped with the double white feature, increasing productivity when printing with white ink at highest opacity to 80m/min.
Durst Software & Solutions will round out the lineup. The software ecosystem ranges from web shops and online
graphics editors to comprehensive workflow and analytics solutions, and ERP/MIS systems, all to help improve and simplify business.
Flint Group
Flint Group is gearing up to introduce attendees to the latest advancements in print technology. Products highlighted at the event include Evolution De-inking Primer and Caustic-Resistant Overprint Varnish (OPV), which enhance sustainability in packaging by improving material yield during the PET bottle recycling process. This range is designed to increase the amount of material that can be reclaimed, increasing the feedstock and availability of recycled material.
Narrow web printers will learn about the dual-curing EkoCure ink series, which eases the transition from UV mercury to UV LED curing. This range enables printers to achieve high-performance printing while minimising their environmental impact and includes the EkoCure ANCORA range approved for food contact materials.
Flint Group’s Ultra Clear Dual Cure Coatings will also be highlighted at Labelexpo Americas. With these products, narrow web printers can harness the advantages
of UV LED curing to provide the necessary clarity and protection for label and packaging requirements. These unique coatings can cure under both UV LED lamps and UV lamps containing mercury, simplifying LED adoption without increasing complexity.
Anna Niewiadomska, marketing manager narrow web at Flint Group, said with sustainability being a key focus in the label and packaging sector, Labelexpo Americas offers a fantastic opportunity for attendees to explore Flint Group’s solutions that enhance sustainability credentials.
“Our products, such as the EkoCure inks and Ultra Clear Dual Cure Coatings, reduce energy consumption through UV LED curing, while Evolution maximises recycling potential. Flint Group’s offerings are designed with sustainability at the forefront. We encourage anyone interested to contact us and schedule a meeting today. We look forward to welcoming narrow web printers and converters at the Flint Group stand.”
FUJIFLILM
FUJIFILM Integrated Inkjet Solutions is a provider of inkjet equipment and services most commonly used for digital printing. FUJIFILM integrates inkjet directly into label and narrow-web presses as well as other processes. FUJIFILM’s featured label products include:
• The 46kUV Printbar System: FUJIFILM’s UV printbar system for label imprinting. Add variable data, including highquality text and codes, at speeds up to 500 feet per minute (152m/min) at 1200x600 dpi. The single-pass printing
A B Graphic International (ABG) will be showcasing a range of cutting-edge innovations designed to enhance productivity and efficiency
The new hybrid KJet will make its American debut at year’s Labelexpo Americas 2024
FUJIFILM Integrated Inkjet Solutions is a provider of inkjet equipment and services most commonly used for digital printing
LABELEXPO AMERICAS 2024 PREVIEW
system adds variable data printing capability to existing production lines. The 46kUV features the Samba printhead, which leverages the accuracy and precision of Silicon MEMS (Si-MEMS) with the reliability and life of sputtered PZT in an ingenious parallelogram shape to deliver breathtaking image quality. The 46kUV is available in 13-, 17-, and 20-inch print widths.
• The DE1024 Digital Embellishment System: The DE1024 adds gloss or tactile effects to existing analogue or digital print production. It can seamlessly integrate into existing label presses and other narrow-web machines. Communicate the value of products with labels that set the product apart from its rivals.
HP
After achieving great success at drupa this year, HP will be at Labelexpo Americas to showcase some of its latest innovations in label and flexible packaging printing technology and to demonstrate how converters can bring the value of HP Indigo digital print to any job, enabling them to
grow faster and diversify into new businesses like flexible packaging and shrink sleeves.
With the widest L&P portfolio of presses and the ‘HP Indigo First and Flexo-second’ mindset, HP Indigo customers can bring on-demand high-quality digital print to any job with broad print versatility regardless of its length. Plus, by assigning each job to the right press, they can increase efficiency, sustainability and improve TCO.
At the show, HP will exhibit the HP Indigo 200K Digital Press with an add-on slitter and the HP Indigo 6K Digital Press. This comprehensive portfolio, along with the HP Indigo V12 Digital Press, offers customers a wide range of options, leading to above market growth of HP Indigo users. HP Indigo digital press fleet is part of an E2E approach including the Digital Pouch Factory, ABG Non-stop Winding and converting. The HP PrintOS software suite helps converters automate the entire production line and produce higher volumes thanks to its complete ecosystem across leading industry players.
The HP Indigo 200K is the only proven digital press for flexible packaging. Fifteen
per cent of HP Indigo’s label converters are using the HP Indigo 200K and 25K to diversify their business and tap into digitally printed flexible packaging, the fastest-growing segment in print. Moreover, thanks to the add-on slitter solution, converters can use the HP Indigo 200K for high productivity PS label printing, print, slit on the press, and convert on their narrow web asset.
At the booth, visitors will also be able to see live demonstrations of the best seller and the industry-standard for digital label production, the HP Indigo 6K Digital Press. Plus, adjoining stations such as PrintOS Spot Master, to show how to reach spot colours within minutes and streamline the print process, or automated workflow solutions to demonstrate how Intelligent Automation can address key customer challenges such as labour shortages, waste reduction, mass customisation, and on-demand production.
The booth will also present other solutions such as XR Services, Security and Brand Protection, Sustainability with the CO2 calculator, and an extensive customer application showcase.
Hybrid Software
Hybrid Software will showcase major new products and technologies at Labelexpo Americas 2024. Product highlights are set to include:
• MyCLOUDFLOW SaaS Workflow Solution: a 100 per cent cloud-based solution based on CLOUDFLOW, offering quick access through a secure environment, strong data protection, and immutable backups. It provides easy scalability without local IT support.
• Broadest 3D offering in the industry: Enhanced CLOUDFLOW’s ProofScope tool with a 3D approval system using iC3D technology for visualising labels and embellishments on 3D shapes. Also showcasing Capture3D for precise artwork distortion on shrink sleeves and metal packaging.
• MyPACKZ SaaS PDF Job Editor: A cloud-based prepress application derived from PACKZ software, offering packaging prepress tools in a hosted SaaS model for improved efficiency, quality, and reduced error rates.
• SmartDFE Digital Front End: An awardwinning digital front end for highspeed label and packaging presses, integrating CLOUDFLOW workflow, AI-accelerated RIP, ColorLogic’s color management, and OPC UA connectivity.
• Xitron’s Navigator DFE and Flexo Suite: The award-winning digital front end
HP will exhibit the HP Indigo V12 (pictured) alongside the HP Indigo 200K Digital Press
Hybrid Software will showcase major new products and technologies at Labelexpo Americas 2024
for high-speed inkjet label applications, and the full-featured flexo workflow featuring SmartFlexo, the hybrid screening technology that combines excellent highlight reproduction with solid ink densities you have to see to believe.
OMET
OMET will present the entire range of label and flexible packaging printing machines at Labelexpo Americas 2024. During the event, a free shuttle will also connect the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center to OMET Americas Inc. Innovation Center, in just a few minutes, with attendees to be offered the opportunity to view live demonstrations on OMET KFlex17”.
Boasting an innovative design and advanced technology, the KFlex, available in 17” and 20” models, introduces a revolutionary approach to flexographic printing platform, making it the most flexible and user-friendly in the industry. The machine features the exclusive SWITCH System, allowing for rapid response to production needs and process optimisation across the entire line. Alongside its advanced performance and exceptional printing quality, the KFlex ensures maximum productivity and versatility to the printers.
During demonstrations at the Innovation Center, the KFlex will be equipped with an in-line RFID antenna insertion system provided by Tamarack, leader in RFID equipment solutions, addressing the growing demand for RFID solutions in the market. Additionally, the machine is equipped with a full UV LED system, reducing energy consumption by more than 60 per cent, promoting environmental sustainability.
At the OMET booth, the XFlex X7 26” printing module for flexible packaging will be displayed. This machine combines the best features of XFlex X6.0 and VaryFlex V2, offering various printing combinations and special effects for high-value end products. XFlex X7 is ideal for flexible packaging and shrink labels, thanks to the advanced XFlex flexo unit technology, motorised printing pressures, and Multivision camera on each printing unit with On-the-Fly registration.
LABELEXPO AMERICAS 2024 PREVIEW
Additionally, at the OMET booth, visitors can also experience the OMET Virtual Tour, a virtual tour through the places where OMET technology is developed: from the new OMET headquarters to the Printing production department, and the permanent showroom Innovation Park.
Screen
Screen will also be present at Labelexpo Americas 2024. Owing to sales success, customer demos and installations, there will be no equipment on the stand but, plenty of print samples and technical information is available. Also, Screen America’s Chicago Inkjet Innovation Centre is 15 minutes’ drive from the Rosemont exhibition centre, at Elk Grove where technologies such as the Truepress JETL350 SAI label press can be seen working.
Local Screen managing director Peter Scott said: “The USA trade show calendar is difficult this year, with Printing United Las Vegas unintentionally rescheduled from October, to be on at the same time, 10-12 September. Labelexpo is a great event but, keeping in mind the hugely successful European drupa show in June where Screen had a major presence, the pressure on manufacturing and installations is real for us globally, hence no equipment is available on the floor of
Labelexpo, but can be inspected nearby at our Inkjet Innovation Centre.”
In the USA and Americas, Screen provides inkjet solutions for a variety of label and packaging applications including prime and industrial labels, paper pouches and flexible packages. Screen’s Truepress LABEL 350UV SAI Series is the flagship digital label press and features up to seven ink channels, CMYK plus white, orange and blue inks for an unbeatable vibrant colour gamut. The recent addition of a primer station further expands the number of label substrates that can be printed on the L350SAI.
At Labelexpo Americas, visitors to the Screen booth will also be able to inspect print samples from the new Truepress PAC520P – a 520mm web press designed to reduce reliance on plastic flexible packaging in favour of paper – including barrier papers. Printers serving the food and confectionery industry now have a new source for their paper packaging solutions, that addresses sustainability with a 100 per cent recyclable solution that virtually eliminated plastics and microplastics, reduces energy use and enables efficient, nimble shorter print runs that can be versioned and personalised.
Print samples on the new Screen Truepress PAC830F using water-based inks will also be available. Applications for this 830mm web packaging press include gusset bags, standing pouches and centre-seal packages using film or plastic.
Screen Americas invites all Labelexpo attendees to inspect print samples and engage in a conversation about how Screen can help ‘Create Their Future’ in label and packaging print.
Screen label and packaging solutions are distributed in Australia by Jet Technologies.
Visitors of Labelexpo Americas will have the opportunity to attend live demonstrations on OMET KFlex17”
Screen Truepress LABEL 350SAI
RFID at Labelexpo Americas 2024
Labelexpo Americas 2024 will focus on how converters can jump on board the RFID train following the expansion of Walmart’s RFID Mandate to include most categories of retail products. Andy Thomas-Emans reports.
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology has been with us for more than two decades, during which time major retail groups and the pharma industry have played with how it might help improve supply chain efficiency and product security. For most label converters, however, RFID has not been on the radar.
This situation changed dramatically when Walmart committed to extend its RFID Mandate to most categories of products it sells. Every converter will now need to understand the mandate and what it means in terms of new equipment and workflows and how RFID labels will tie into Walmart’s wider supply chain.
Firstly, back to basics.
What is RFID?
The unique property of an RFID tag or label is the ability to store information
to a chip and to read it back using RFID readers. This means that information stored on an RFID chip can be constantly detected, for example as a product moves through the supply chain from manufacturing to warehouse and into a retail store.
The RFID chip is attached to an antenna which picks up the radio frequency (RF) signal which triggers the exchange of data. This assembly is delivered as an RFID inlay, supplied on a reel, for insertion into a PS label laminate.
Manufacturing an RFID label is basically a standard delam-relam operation to insert the inlay into a laminate. But there are a number of special conditions: static elimination is essential as electrostatic discharge can kill the chip; and the converter must have the ability to test and validate the RF performance of the label after lamination and die cutting before delivery to the end customer.
Encoding of the RFID chip can take place at different points in the supply chain, including by the label converter.
Most commonly today for mass market applications the chip will be programmed upstream, at, or close, to the point of label application.
RFID tags and labels need to be powered up before they can receive or transmit data. Power either comes from an on-board battery pack, known as an ‘active’ chip, or the chip assembly is powered by the same radio frequency waves which carry data. These are known as ‘passive’ RFID tags and labels.
Label converters are most likely to be dealing with passive RFID labels and tags operating in the UHF (ultra-high frequency) or HF (high frequency) part of the spectrum. The brand name for the passive UHF RFID technology that is widely used in retail and other applications to
The unique property of an RFID tag or label is the ability to store information to a chip and to read it back using RFID readers.
LABELEXPO AMERICAS 2024 PREVIEW
identify and trace items is called RAIN RFID. The unique benefits of RAIN RFID include the ability to read the tags in high volumes, at high speeds.
The reader hardware which remotely powers the RAIN RFID chips can have a read/ write range typically up to 40ft and does not require direct line-of-sight. The RFID reader units can be installed at a fixed location, for example, over a conveyor belt, across a warehouse aisle or at a gateway. Hand-held reader devices can be used when mobility is needed. Smart phones with NFC chip readers can also interact with passive HF RFID chips across very short distances.
Walmart mandate
Walmart first trialled RFID tags across its apparel and jewellery ranges in 2020. Each tag contains unique identifiers and essential information about the product, including item description, price and store location.
The apparel trial fully vindicated Walmart’s faith in RFID. The company was able to identify and restock products quickly, reducing the instances of empty shelves while reducing excess inventory. As a result, Walmart and its suppliers have better visibility into the movement of products facilitating faster response across the supply chain.
In 2022, Walmart announced the extension of its RFID Mandate to wider categories of products including toys, home goods, electronics, and sporting goods, which must now be individually outfitted with UHF RFID chips.
It is the responsibility of suppliers to program the chips with accurate and up-todate data related to each product. Suppliers are also required to use UHF RFID inlays that have Walmart-approved (ARC) certification.
The RFID Mandate means converters and their brand customers must determine
how to implement a robust RFID system that will comply with Walmart’s standards.
In order to comply, suppliers will need to understand a range of factors: what type of RFID inlay is approved for use; where to source RFID tags or labels; what equipment and software is required to encode the tags properly; and how RFID labels will be attached to each individual item.
“Retail applications are only one aspect of the rapidly accelerating RFID revolution. In industrial sectors like automotive manufacturing, RFID is finding an increasing number of uses from tracking car tires to automatically identifying engine parts.”
While bigger brands will have the inhouse knowledge, smaller ‘challenger’ brands may not, which opens up a new business opportunity for RFID-savvy converters.
Walmart is by no means alone in driving the faster adoption of RFID. Amazon has adopted the same UHF passive RFID tags and label technology to drive its new line of checkout-free stores.
The company’s ‘Just Walk Out’ stores first opened in 2018, and today are present in franchises across North America, the UK, and Australia.
These first generation ‘Just Walk Out’ stores rely on computer vision technology, which requires that ‘softlines’ like clothing stored in bags or boxes where the camera can see them, which is not convenient for consumers who want to try on garments.
Amazon’s second-generation stores will combine vision-based technology with item-level RFID, implemented in partnership with Avery Dennison.
This means customers can grab clothes, hats, shoes, and more and simply walk out of the store through an exit gate – even while wearing their purchases – by tapping their credit or debit card or hovering their palm over an Amazon One palm recognition device.
The first retail rollout is at multiple concessions at NFL Seattle Seahawks
Labelexpo Americas 2024 will have a strong focus on how converters can get involved in the RFID revolution
Some of the world’s leading suppliers of RFID inlays and are also exhibiting
LABELEXPO AMERICAS 2024 PREVIEW
Lumen Field stadium, where a doubling of sales has already been reported.
Retail applications are only one aspect of the rapidly accelerating RFID revolution. In industrial sectors like automotive manufacturing, RFID is finding an increasing number of uses from tracking car tyres to automatically identifying engine parts.
It is also worth noting how sustainability legislation might drive RFID adoption.
The European Union’s Digital Product Passport (DPP) regulation, combined with the circular economy directive, will require that every product placed onto the European market has a ‘digital twin’, giving access to a growing range of sustainability data points.
Two ways the digital twin can be accessed are via a QR code and/or RFID chip. RFID has the added advantage that reusable containers can be tracked on their circular journeys from cleaning stations to refill and packaging to the consumer and round again.
RFID at Labelexpo Americas 2024
Labelexpo Americas 2024 will have a strong focus on how converters can get involved in the RFID revolution.
The morning of Thursday 12 September sees the Label Academy presenting a halfday workshop on RFID in Labels and Package Printing sponsored by Avery Dennison. Topics delivered by industry experts include end user mandates, a comprehensive overview of RFID technology, and the equipment required
to convert, test and encode RFID labels and tags. There are further sessions on ensuring security on RFID networks and understanding how Electronic Product Codes (EPC) are implemented in an RFID system to identify individual products. The workshop closes with a converter case study.
“For the highly entrepreneurial label converting industry, RFID at Labelexpo Americas 2024 represents a major opportunity for business expansion.”
One of the key suppliers exhibiting at the show will be Voyantic. The company is all about demonstrating turnkey quality control and testing equipment for RFID tag and label production lines and offers advice on RFID technology and systems.
Other exhibitors who will be at Labelexpo Americas 2024 is GIC. The company demonstrates a range of RFID tag/label encoding and inspection systems.
Tamarack is a manufacturer of RFID inlay insertion equipment which can be configured as standalone or an inline module on a flexo press. Delta ModTech is a company that manufactures single-pass RFID processing, encoding and inspection systems. Delta ModTech will feature their Crusader Converter with patented Island
Transfer and Island Placement modules in the RFID Focus Area. This converting system is designed to provide high-speed, high-precision RFID tag insertion while also minimising waste.
Kirk-Rudy supplies high-speed encoding and imprinting lines for hang tags primarily used in the garment industry, and a machine for applying RFID labels to flat items.
Both Muhlbauer and Melzer are companies that have long experience of advanced standalone RFID manufacturing, encoding and verification systems.
Rewinder/inspection machine specialist Rosas Machinenbau recently launched an RFID label converting and serialisation system which can encode HF and UHF chips based on information from a database or synchronise with printed serialisation codes read by a camera. This ensures visual and encrypted codes match.
Some of the world’s leading suppliers of RFID inlays and systems expertise are also exhibiting, including Avery Dennison, Fedrigoni Group, UPM Raflatac, 3M, Beontag, Checkpoint Systems and Hana Technologies.
From China comes RFID tag and label specialist Nexqo, founded in 2010 to provide one-stop RFID and NFC solutions for applications in the hospitality, warehouse management, transportation and retail sectors.
For the highly entrepreneurial label converting industry, RFID at Labelexpo Americas 2024 represents a major opportunity for business expansion.
The Label Academy will present a half-day workshop on RFID in Labels and Packaging Printing
durst-group.com/label
The circular economy: consumer expectations and sustainable growth
PakTech CEO Brandon Rogers on why businesses must embrace the circular economy and prioritise sustainable packaging and policies.
Sustainability is one of the defining issues for today’s generation. Our impact on the environment is immense, and as our population continues to increase, and our consumption habits continue, that impact is growing. As a result, the need for a ‘circular economy’ is growing in the minds of millions of us today. Consumers today are changing their own consumption habits and holding brands and policymakers accountable. This conscious consumerism isn’t just in an isolated demographic, it’s widespread.
Approximately three out of five Australians are actively taking steps to reduce their use of plastic products, 43 per cent are willing to spend more on products if packaged in sustainable materials. A further 43 per cent would consider avoiding a brand if they believe that the brand is not doing enough to reduce its use of non-recyclable packaging. Evidently, packaging content and design has grown in importance, and consumers are reflecting this in their purchasing habits.
For brands, whether an independent brewery or a large FMCG retailer, their customers – and policymakers – are looking more closely than ever at everything from the sustainability of their supply chain to their materials and manufacturing processes. As scrutiny increases, sustainability and the circular economy is no longer a competitive differentiator, it is the expectation. But what is the circular economy? And why is it important?
A sustainable approach for a sustainably-minded generation
In essence, the circular economy is a process or model that seeks to minimise waste and protect the environment by recycling and reusing resources as much as possible. By reusing existing resources, the circular model reduces the need for new resources, minimises environmental impact and creates more sustainable practices and mindsets. By designing products for longevity through continued reuse, the circular economy creates a more resilient and sustainable environment and ecosystem.
It is being implemented in many sectors, most notably in food, consumer goods, manufacturing and construction. Today, momentum for the circular economy is growing quickly, thanks to a combination of consumer demand and government policies to encourage sustainability. Globally, the revenue of circular economy transactions was an estimated AUD$509 billion in 2022, but this is forecasted to more than double to AUD$1.070 billion by 2026.
The circular economy: growing in importance
By 2050, the world is expected to be home to 10 billion people. Already, there are not enough finite resources to meet our immense single use consumption habits today. But by 2025, that alreadyunsustainable disparity will be catastrophic. Minimising waste and maximising reuse becomes more critical by the day. Businesses have a huge role to play.
Presently, masses of single use items and packaging is sent to landfill globally. Reducing that burden on the planet, by embracing reusable material reduces not only the amount of packaging that ends in landfills or oceans, but the amount of packaging that is manufactured in the first place. The good news is that we know more consumers prioritise the environment when making purchase decisions today, so there’s a compelling business case.
PwC’s Global Consumer Insights Survey found that eight out of 10 consumers are willing to pay above the average price for sustainable items. Millennials and
Gen Z are especially open to spending more for sustainability and those values are expected to stay the same as they grow older. For brands, it’s an essential way to build connections with today’s conscious consumers.
“Sustainability is no longer a competitive differentiator, it’s table stakes. Brands aren’t just being judged purely on their product, but how it’s packaged and manufactured.”
Businesses who stand still and fail to embrace it will fall behind in the eyes – and wallets – of conscious consumers. The need is not just to satisfy consumers, but policymakers too, who are moving to reduce single-use plastics by banning items like plastic bags, straws, and cutlery, which are problematic to recycle and reuse. In many states, like New South Wales, there are fines for non-compliance. Simply, businesses must embrace the circular economy, and prioritise sustainable packaging and policies; to win brand loyalty and to comply with legislation.
PakTech exists to help brands meet expectations and adhere to legislation. We manufacture 100 per cent recyclable, recycled packaging for the consumer goods industries, enabling brands to meet the needs of their customers, policymakers and, perhaps the most important stakeholder of all, the environment.
Sustainability is no longer a competitive differentiator, it’s table stakes. Brands aren’t just being judged purely on their product, but how it’s packaged and manufactured, by whom, how it’s delivered to them and more. By adopting sustainable packaging, practices, and a more circular model, brands can meet and exceed those expectations and use it as the foundation for long-term, sustainable growth.
How to attract top talent in 2024
If you can’t attract and retain top performers, your business will never achieve its full potential no matter how good your products or services are. Here are five considerations to keep in mind when recruiting new staff.
Having been an executive recruiter for more than 20 years, plus having led teams of up to 750 people myself, I am regularly asked by CEOs and business owners how to best go about attracting and retaining the best people in their organisations. This has been especially true in more recent times where people are talking about the “war for talent” and the “great resignation”. The reality is that organisations live and die based on the quality of their people. If you can’t attract and retain top performers, your business will never achieve its full potential no matter how good your products or services are. Here are five key points to assist you in this regard:
1. What are you doing to build your company brand and your own personal brand as an employer of choice? Most company websites are very focused on their ideal customer, yet very few have any emphasis on why someone would want to join as an employee. Most executive leaders have a LinkedIn profile that is a synopsis of their career history yet gives no indication of why
they would be a great person to be managed and led by. If your people are your greatest asset, then why not invest some time and money in projecting that to your ideal employees through your website and LinkedIn profiles.
2. If you are not recruiting the role directly yourself, make sure that the person you have delegated this to (either internal HR or a third-party recruiter) clearly understands the role and especially the key deliverables. You want to recruit someone who has done it before, done it well, and is motivated to do it again. The clearer the brief as to what success looks like, the more likelihood that the person recruiting the role will deliver appropriately qualified and experienced candidates.
3. Make sure that the person recruiting the role puts their name and phone number on the advertisement (Seek or LinkedIn). Good candidates want to ring a real person and have a real conversation with someone before
applying. If there is nobody to ring, then they are likely to not apply, which will significantly reduce the quality of your candidate pool.
4. Make sure that you headhunt. The best candidates are not actively looking for a new role, they are passive. There are issues with internal recruiters headhunting because they need to identify who they work for. So, if it is a mission critical role, or you are looking to replace a non-performer, then ideally you will engage an external headhunter to handle this for you.
5. Once someone is employed, it is critical to establish a relationship of love and performance. Too much love and not enough KPIs results in a soft, underperforming team. Too much accountability (KPIs) and not enough love results in team members becoming very self centred (they only care about their own KPIs) and/or they leave. Employees want to do well, they want to be held accountable, and they want to be loved. It’s a fine balance, however it is the mark of a great leader and it’s something you can easily learn to do.
If you can successfully attract and retain top performers, your business will achieve excellent results. As a leader, you will be able to delegate tasks efficiently and effectively, you will be able to focus on more strategic priorities, and you will be able to have a much greater work/life balance.
In my opinion, both the “war for talent” and the “great resignation” are cliches used as an excuse by recruiters and managers for poor performance. There are simply some companies that are great at recruitment, and the majority who aren’t. Likewise, there are some leaders who are excellent at retaining their top people, and the majority who aren’t. Through implementing these five simple suggestions, you and your business will have a distinct advantage over your competitors. It’s definitely worth it, don’t you think?
Richard Triggs, author of Winning the War for Talent, is the founder and CEO of Arete Executive, an executive search and recruitment company. www.areteexecutive.com.au
The reality is that organisations live and die based on the quality of the people they recruit
Labelexpo
Labelexpo Americas
NAVIGATING THE NEW FRONTIERS
2024 CON FERENCE
REGISTRATION
Tickets via website www.fplma.org.au
CLOSING
Friday 16th August, 2024
TECHNICAL FORUM
Thursday 29th August 2024 Friday 30th August 2024
Melbourne Exhibition Centre (Jeffs Shed) Normanby Road, Southbank Victoria 3006 Australia
Price (full pass)
(Includes Day 1, Day 2, Dinner)
Members: A$595
Non-Members: A$850
AWARDS DINNER
Friday 30th August @ 6.00pm
Attire: Smart Business
Crown Palladium Melbourne Level 1 Crown Towers, Crown Melbourne, 8 Whiteman St, Southbank VIC 3006
Price Dinner: A$190
prices exclude GST
Why LED-UV ?
No odor
No Ozone
No spray powder
No set-off
No loss time
• Instant dry
• Instant ON/OFF irradiation
Reduce CO2 emission
No large peripheral equipment
No need for overprint varnishing
Reduce electrical consumption
• Up to 91%
No VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds)
Reduce heat generation
Long life span
• Up to 15 times
Printing on film and cardboard
Just like your conventional offset press
...without the cons.
To better handle ultra-short-run printing, the make-ready time had been further reduced from 3 minutes to 2 minutes with the introduction of the new Smart-Parallel-FPC. Non-stop continuous printing with our new Smart Assist Printing is made even more efficient. The “parallel process” function simultaneously performs plate change, blanket clean, and ink preset by independent drive mechanism with the plate cylinders contributing to further productivity improvement. Fast job changeover is a powerful advantage as the volume of ultra-short and short-run work continues to grow. Together with our well received LED-UV dry-to-dry printing system, a diversed range of work can all be done within a single shift. In addition, as part of the “RMGT Smart Factory” driver, the RMGT Press Information Cloud Management System, AGV (Autonomous Guided Vehicle) system and the future Robotic-arm automatic plate loading system will together create a smart factory where one can visualise the whole print production digitally where you can optimise job order to product delivery in the shortest time.
Stay tuned.
New Smart-Parallel-FPC
